Heating panels and systems and methods of using same

ABSTRACT

A system and method for heating structures to either prevent the build-up of freezing precipitation or eliminate freezing precipitation on an exposed outer surface of the structures. The system includes a heating assembly integrally formed with a structure to apply thermal energy to the exposed outer surface of the structure. Optionally, the heating assembly includes heating elements formed of carbon fiber. The system optionally includes a control assembly operatively coupled to the heating assembly. The control assembly selectively powers the heating assembly and can be configured for remote operation. In use, the control assembly can be selectively activated from a remote location to power the heating assembly and heat the structure. Optionally, the structure is a concrete structure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/024,152, filed on Sep. 11, 2013, which claims the benefit ofthe filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/699,372,filed on Sep. 11, 2012, which applications are incorporated by referenceherein in their entirety.

STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

This invention was made with United States government support underGrant AUTC Project #410014 awarded by the Research and InnovativeTechnology Administration of the United States Department ofTransportation through the Alaska University Transportation Center. Thegovernment has certain rights in this invention.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to construction and maintenanceof concrete structures that define travel surfaces, including, forexample, roadways, pathways, drive-throughs, flooring, and stairways.More particularly, the present invention relates to structurallyintegrated, self-heating concrete systems having electrically resistiveheating panels configured to heat concrete roadways, pathways,drive-throughs, flooring, and stairways for purposes of melting surfaceice or snow.

BACKGROUND

In freezing climates, snow and ice can cause a number of dangerousroadway conditions that can be both hazardous and inconvenient. Thesedangerous road conditions can lead to an increase in traffic accidents.A number of deicing or anti-icing strategies, including mechanical,chemical, and thermal methods, have been employed to mitigate theeffects of snow and ice on pavement surfaces.

The most conventional chemical deicing method is salting. Salting can bea cheap and effective method of deicing roads. However, the salt usedduring these deicing methods can corrode the steel in automobiles andconcrete roadway structures cause additional environmental pollution. Ithas been shown that the use of deicing salts is associated with salinepollution in groundwater and springs in urban areas. Elevatedconcentrations of salt in groundwater and in roadside areas can damagevegetation and decrease aeration and availability of water in soil. Ithas also been shown that roadway salting can cause corrosion of steelreinforcements of roadway structures, resulting in both structuraldamage and a need for costly repairs. For example, degradation of bridgedecks has been shown to be particularly pronounced in areas withfreezing weather, most notably in the north east and along the Atlanticcoast, where only approximately 75% of bridges were still in soundcondition after 20 years, as compared to 80% in the Great Lakes and 88%in the lower plains. In another example, it has been estimated thatbetween 1990 and 2000, the cost of repairing bridge decks declared to beunsound ranged between 50 and 200 million dollars a year.

To reduce damage to concrete roadway structures, certain complexchemical solutions have been developed as an alternative to salting.Such complex chemical solutions include potassium acetate, calciummagnesium acetate, calcium magnesium potassium acetate, and the like.Some of these chemical solutions do not contain chloride, and they canbe configured to decompose quickly. However, acetate can reduce thedurability of asphalt and concrete roadway structures. Also, suchcomplex chemical solutions can be expensive.

Another conventional alternative to chemical deicing methods is the useof thermal technology. Depending on whether the heating source isembedded inside the roadway structure, such thermal deicing systems canbe characterized as either internal or external. Internal thermaldeicing systems can include hydronic systems, electric heating cablesystems, carbon fiber heating wire systems, and the like. Externalthermal deicing systems can include microwave systems, infrared heatingsystems, and the like. Such thermal deicing systems can require bulky,power-hungry, and/or unreliable components to enable the heatingfunction. Additionally, such thermal deicing methods can costsignificantly more than the conventional chemical deicing methodsdescribed above.

Accordingly, a need exists for an environmentally-friendly, safe,efficient, and cost-effective deicing system capable of increasing theoperational duration of roadways, particularly during weather eventsinvolving snow, ice, and the like. There is a further need for deicingsystems that can be constructed using conventional techniques and thatcomprise a structurally integrated and automated self-heating concretesystem that is comparable in cost to conventional roadway salting.

SUMMARY

It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive overview ofthe disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not restrictive, and it isintended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosurenor delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is toexplain and exemplify certain concepts of the disclosure as anintroduction to the following complete and extensive detaileddescription.

Disclosed herein is a self-heating concrete system that can overcome oneor more of the foregoing or other problems in the art. The disclosedsystem can include a heating assembly having a plurality of spacedheating elements and a plurality of spaced electrodes. Each heatingelement of the plurality of spaced heating elements can have alongitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis of each respective heatingelement can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of eachother heating element of the plurality of heating elements. At least oneelectrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes can be electricallycoupled to each respective heating element. The heating assembly can beconfigured to be integrally formed within a concrete structure to applythermal energy to a top surface of the concrete structure. Followingformation of the concrete structure, the plurality of heating elementsand the plurality of spaced electrodes can be configured for unifiedmovement with the concrete structure. Optionally, the heating elementscan be formed from carbon fiber tape.

The heating system can further include a control assembly operativelycoupled to the heating assembly. The control assembly can be configuredto selectively power the heating assembly. Optionally, the controlassembly can be configured for remote operation.

Also disclosed are methods for controlling the self-heating concretesystem. The methods can include integrally forming the heating assemblywithin the concrete structure. The methods can further includeoperatively coupling the control assembly to the heating assembly. Themethods can still further include selectively activating the controlassembly from a remote location to power the heating assembly and heatthe concrete structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features of the preferred embodiments of the inventionwill become more apparent in the detailed description in which referenceis made to the appended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 schematically depicts an exemplary heating system for heating aconcrete structure as disclosed herein.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate exemplary anchor portions of an electrode ofa heating assembly as disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a heating assemblyhaving metal electrodes as disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 discloses an exemplary configuration of a heating assembly havingintegrated carbon fiber electrodes as disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary heating system as disclosedherein.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of an exemplary control assembly asdisclosed herein.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of an exemplary configuration of a seriesof concrete structures integrally formed with heating systems asdisclosed herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a concrete structure havingan integrated flexible heating assembly as disclosed herein, taken atline A-A.

FIG. 9 illustrates an isolated top view of an exemplary heating assemblyas disclosed herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a plurality oftemperature sensors on a top surface of a concrete structure asdisclosed herein.

FIG. 11 displays a concrete structure equipped with a heating system asdisclosed herein in the following conditions: (a) an initial, unclearedcondition, (b) a first partially heated condition (after 1 hour); (c) asecond partially heated condition (after 2 hours); and (d) a clearedcondition (after 3 hours of heating).

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the temperature data trended over time forone example of a heating system as disclosed herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates temperature variation versus time for a particularlocation in a concrete structure integrally formed with a heating systemas disclosed herein.

FIG. 14 illustrates the results of use of a heating system as disclosedherein to prevent ice and/or snow accumulation on the top surface of aconcrete structure.

FIG. 15 illustrates exemplary conditions for deicing and/or anti-icingoperation of a heating system as disclosed herein.

FIG. 16 illustrates ambient temperature versus deicing unit cost for anexemplary heating system as disclosed herein.

FIG. 17 illustrates wind chill versus deicing unit cost for an exemplaryheating system as disclosed herein.

FIG. 18 illustrates snow density versus deicing unit cost for anexemplary heating system as disclosed herein.

FIG. 19 is a table showing the cost comparison of an exemplary heatingsystem as disclosed herein versus other thermal deicing systems.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, andtheir previous and following description. However, before the presentdevices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is tobe understood that this invention is not limited to the specificdevices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified,and, as such, can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that theterminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularaspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description of the invention is provided as an enablingteaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. Tothis end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize andappreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of theinvention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial resultsof the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of thedesired benefits of the present invention can be obtained by selectingsome of the features of the present invention without utilizing otherfeatures. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize thatmany modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possibleand can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of thepresent invention. Thus, the following description is provided asillustrative of the principles of the present invention and not inlimitation thereof.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” includeplural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus,for example, reference to “an electrode” can include two or more suchelectrodes unless the context indicates otherwise.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value,and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/orto the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed asapproximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understoodthat the particular value forms another aspect. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that thesubsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, andthat the description includes instances where said event or circumstanceoccurs and instances where it does not.

The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular listand also includes any combination of members of that list.

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for heating a concretestructure, such as, for example and without limitation, a concreteroadway structure, a concrete stairway, a concrete drive-through, aconcrete flooring structure, a concrete sidewalk structure, and aconcrete pathway structure. In exemplary aspects, the disclosed systemsand methods can be used to electrically de-ice a concrete structure inan automated manner. It is contemplated that the disclosed systems andmethods can promote conservation of the environment while alsopreserving the integrity of concrete structures. It is furthercontemplated that the disclosed systems and methods can simplify theprocess of regaining operability of travel surfaces, such as roadways,pathways, sidewalks, and stairways, following frozen precipitationand/or icing. It is still further contemplated that the disclosedsystems and methods can also reduce labor and equipment costs.

In various aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 1-10, a heating system10 for heating a concrete structure 100 is provided. As shown in FIG. 8,it is contemplated that the concrete structure can have a top (or otherouter) surface 110, at least one insulation layer 120, and a base layer130. In exemplary aspects, the heating system 10 can comprise a heatingassembly 20 and a control assembly 50.

In exemplary aspects, the heating assembly 20 can comprise heatingelements formed of carbon fiber tape and/or carbon fiber fabric and athin layer of insulating coating. In other exemplary aspects, theheating elements of the heating assembly can be positioned in a selectedconfiguration to optimize power generation and performance for aparticular application. In other exemplary aspects, the heating assemblycan be coupled directly to a concrete structure (such as, for exampleand without limitation, a Portland cement or asphalt concrete structure)such that the heating assembly moves together with the concretestructure, thereby avoiding damage to the heating assembly. In stillother exemplary aspects, the heating elements of the heating assemblycan be anchored to the concrete structure by metal or carbon fiberstrips to form electrodes that supply power to the heating assembly. Infurther exemplary aspects, low-voltage AC or DC power (for example, ACor DC power provided at voltages of less than about 24 V) can be used topower the heating assembly, thereby ensuring safe operation of theheating assembly. In still further exemplary aspects, the heatingassembly can be remotely activated using remote control technology,thereby providing means for deicing a concrete structure from a remotelocation.

By remotely monitoring the weather and temperature data as disclosedherein, it is contemplated that the heating system 10 can be controlledby a small number of operators in a central location. It is contemplatedthat the remote-operation capabilities of the heating system 10 canreduce—and potentially eliminate—the turnaround time betweeninoperability and operability of a concrete structure. As furtherdescribed herein, the heating system 10 can be triggered on-demand andbegin working immediately; it does not need to wait for conditions toimprove or labor support to arrive.

Although disclosed herein as being integrated into concrete structures,it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20 can be integrated intoother structures for purposes of applying thermal energy to thosestructures. For example, it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20can be integrated into a roof structure, thereby permitting applicationof thermal energy to one or more surfaces of the roof structure to meltaccumulated ice and/or snow and/or to prevent accumulation of ice andsnow.

The Structurally Integrated Heating Assembly

In one aspect, the heating assembly 20 can comprise a plurality ofspaced heating elements 22. In this aspect, each heating element 22 ofthe plurality of spaced heating elements can have opposed first andsecond ends 24, 26 and a longitudinal axis 28 extending between theopposed first and second ends. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplatedthat the longitudinal axis 28 of each respective heating element 22 canbe substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of each other heatingelement of the plurality of heating elements. However, it iscontemplated that any configuration in which the heating elements 22 canbe powered in parallel can be used. In exemplary aspects, each heatingelement 22 of the plurality of heating elements can be spaced fromadjacent heating elements by a selected distance 27, which canoptionally be about 3 inches. In other exemplary aspects, it iscontemplated that heating elements 22 of the heating assembly 20 thatare positioned adjacent to the lateral edge of the heating assembly canbe spaced from the lateral ends of the electrodes 30 by a selecteddistance 29, which optionally can be about 1.5 inches. In still otherexemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the spacing between adjacentheating elements 22 can vary among the plurality of heating elements.Thus, in these aspects, the spacing between a first heating element anda second heating element adjacent to the first heating element can bedifferent than the spacing between the second heating element and athird heating element adjacent to the second heating element. In stillother exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the longitudinal axis28 of at least one heating element 22 can be angularly oriented relativeto at least one other heating element 22 of the plurality of spacedheating elements.

Optionally, in some aspects, at least one heating element of theplurality of spaced heating elements can comprise carbon fiber. In theseaspects, it is contemplated that at least one heating element of theplurality of spaced heating elements can comprise carbon fiber paper(also conventionally referred to as “carbon fiber tape” and/or “carbonfiber fabric”) as is known in the art. In exemplary optional aspects,each heating element of the plurality of spaced heating elements cancomprise carbon fiber. In these aspects, it is contemplated that eachheating element of the plurality of spaced heating elements canoptionally comprise carbon fiber paper. It is contemplated that carbonfiber is a lightweight material that can have a high tensile strength.For example, in exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that carbon fiber,as used herein, can have a Young's Modulus of about 18×10⁶ psi, atensile strength of about 170 ksi, and a density of about 0.057 pci. Inother exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that carbon fiber as usedherein can have an electrical resistivity ranging from about 8×10⁻³ toabout 40×10⁻³ Ω.

In exemplary aspects, as further described below, at least a portion ofeach heating element 22 of the plurality of spaced heating elements canoptionally be coated with an electrically insulating material. In theseaspects, it is contemplated that the electrically insulating materialcan optionally be thermally conductive. It is further contemplated thatthe coating of the electrically insulating material on each heatingelement can be a substantially thin coating. It is still furthercontemplated that, upon installation of the heating assembly 20 within aconcrete structure 100 as further described herein, the plurality ofheating elements 22 can be completely electrically sealed, therebypermitting safe usage of the heating system 10 in public areas.

In another aspect, the heating assembly 20 can comprise a plurality ofspaced electrodes 30. In this aspect, at least one electrode of theplurality of spaced electrodes 30 can be electrically coupled to eachrespective heating element of the plurality of spaced heating elements.It is contemplated that each electrode 30 of the plurality of spacedelectrodes can have a respective longitudinal axis 32. It is furthercontemplated that each electrode 30 of the plurality of spacedelectrodes can comprise any conventional electrically conductivematerial. In exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIG. 4, it iscontemplated that at least one electrode 30 of the plurality of spacedelectrodes can comprise carbon fiber. In these aspects, it is furthercontemplated that each electrode 30 of the plurality of spacedelectrodes can comprise carbon fiber. In other exemplary aspects, and asshown in FIG. 3, it is contemplated that at least one electrode 30 ofthe plurality of spaced electrodes can comprise metal. In these aspects,it is further contemplated that each electrode 30 of the plurality ofspaced electrodes can comprise metal.

In a further aspect, it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20 canbe configured to be integrally formed within the concrete structure 100to apply thermal energy to the top surface 110 of the concretestructure. In this aspect, it is contemplated that the top surface 110can optionally be a substantially flat surface. However, it is alsocontemplated that the top surface 110 can optionally be a substantiallycurved surface. It is further contemplated that, following formation ofthe concrete structure 100, the plurality of heating elements 22 and theplurality of electrodes 30 can be configured for unified movement withthe concrete structure 100. As used herein, the term “unified” refers tothe contemporaneous movement of the heating assembly 20 and the concretestructure 100 in response to a force applied to the concrete structure.Such “unified” movement results from the integral formation of theheating assembly 20 with the concrete structure 100 and is characterizedby an arrangement in which the translational and/or bending movement ofthe heating assembly corresponds to the translational and/or bendingmovement of surrounding portions of the concrete structure. Thus, as aportion of the concrete structure translates in a first direction, theadjacent portions of the heating assembly 20 will likewise translate inthe first direction. Similarly, when a portion of the concrete structureundergoes bending movement, portions of the heating assembly 20 adjacentto the bending locations (within the concrete structure) will undergocorresponding bending movement.

In additional aspects, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 9, the plurality ofspaced electrodes 30 can comprise at least one pair of opposedelectrodes. In these aspects, each pair of opposed electrodes cancomprise a first electrode 30 a coupled to the first end 24 of at leastone spaced heating element 22 and a second electrode 30 b coupled to thesecond end 26 of at least one spaced heating element.

In exemplary aspects, the plurality of electrodes 30 can be configuredto restrict movement of the plurality of heating elements 22, therebymaintaining electrical coupling between the electrodes and the heatingelements. In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 2-3, it is contemplatedthat each electrode 30 of the plurality of electrodes can optionallycomprise at least one anchor element 34. In these aspects, it is furthercontemplated that the at least one anchor element 34 can comprise atleast one fastener that extends through at least a portion of anadjacent heating element 22, thereby securing a heating element 22 to arespective electrode 30. In one exemplary aspect, at least one electrode30 of the plurality of electrodes can comprise a pair of spaced bars 33that define a central space for receiving a portion of each heatingelement 22 of the plurality of heating elements. In this aspect, it iscontemplated that the spaced bars 33 can be configured to “sandwich” theplurality of heating elements 22 between the two bars, and the anchorelements 34 can secure the heating elements 22 in this operativeposition. Optionally, it is contemplated that the bars 33 can comprisecopper bars and the heating elements 22 can comprise carbon fiber tape.

In other aspects, as shown in FIG. 4, each electrode 30 of the pluralityof electrodes can be provided as an elongate structure having asubstantially round cross-section. In these aspects, it is contemplatedthat the plurality of electrodes 30 can be configured to act as anchorsto secure the respective ends of the heating elements in a desiredlocation.

Optionally, in another aspect, each heating element 22 of the pluralityof heating elements can comprise a plurality of electrical wires. Inthis aspect, it is contemplated that the plurality of electrical wirescan comprise at least one electrical wire operatively secured to thefirst end 24 of the heating element 22 and at least one electrical wireoperatively secured to the second end 26 of the heating element. It isfurther contemplated that the plurality of electrical wires of eachheating element 22 can be configured to electrically couple the heatingelement to the plurality of electrodes 30. It is still furthercontemplated that the plurality of electrical wires can be secured torespective ends 24, 26 of each heating element 22 using conventionalmethods, such as, for example and without limitation, bolting, as shownin FIG. 2B. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that anchorelements 34 of each respective electrode 30 can be configured foroperative coupling with the plurality of wires, thereby forming anoperative electrical connection between the respective heating elements22 and electrodes 30.

In exemplary aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 2B and 5, theplurality of electrical wires can be connected to an electrical powersource 60 through a conventional wire connector 36. In these aspects, itis contemplated that the wire connector 36 can electrically connectelectrical wires with additional electrical wiring 37 that is inelectrical communication with the power source 60. In a further aspect,it is contemplated that the system 10 can be provided with an anchoringbolt 38 configured to secure the wire connector 36 to at least oneelectrode 30 of the plurality of electrodes.

In yet another optional aspect, the plurality of electrodes 30 can beelectrically coupled to the plurality of heating elements 22 such thatthe longitudinal axis 32 of each respective electrode 30 issubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 32 of each otherelectrode of the plurality of electrodes. In this aspect, it iscontemplated that the longitudinal axes 28 of the plurality of heatingelements 22 can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes32 of the plurality of electrodes 30.

In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the plurality of heatingelements 22 and the plurality of spaced electrodes 30 can be pre-formedinto a panel structure, as shown in FIGS. 3-4 and 8-9. In these aspects,it is contemplated that the plurality of heating elements 22 and theplurality of spaced electrodes 30 can be sufficiently flexible to permitunified movement of the heating assembly 20 and the concrete structure100. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the panel structurecan have any suitable shape for a particular application. For example,it is contemplated that a heating assembly 20 positioned within astairway can be pre-formed to a shape substantially corresponding to theshape of the stairway. It is contemplated that the heating assembly 20can be pre-formed in other non-flat configurations in order to increaseflexibility of the heating assembly. However, in other exemplaryaspects, it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20 can besubstantially flat. In these aspects, it is contemplated that asubstantially flat heating assembly 20 can be embedded within a sidewalkstructure as further disclosed herein. It is contemplated that, becausethe heating assembly 20 is pre-formed as disclosed herein, dispersion ofthe heating elements 22 within the concrete structure 100 over time canbe avoided or reduced.

In one exemplary aspect, it is contemplated that a heating assembly 20can optionally be formed into a panel structure in accordance with thefollowing method. In one aspect, the method can comprise cutting aplurality of strips of carbon fiber (for example and without limitation,carbon fiber paper) to a selected length, thereby forming the pluralityof heating elements 22. In another aspect, the method can comprisearranging the plurality of strips of carbon fiber on a surface. In anadditional aspect, the method can optionally comprise covering selectedportions of the cut strips of carbon fiber with a layer of flexible,electrically insulating and, optionally, thermally conductive, material.In this aspect, it is contemplated that the flexible, electricallyinsulating and, optionally, thermally conductive material can compriseone or more conventional electrically insulating materials, such as, forexample and without limitation, an epoxy and the like. It is furthercontemplated that the strips of carbon fiber can optionally be leftsubstantially free of insulating material on their respective ends 24,26 to facilitate connection to the electrodes. In a further aspect, themethod can comprise connecting the strips of carbon fiber in parallel tothe plurality of spaced electrodes 30 to form the panel structure. Inother exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the insulating materialcan be sprayed, painted or otherwise applied to coat each strip ofcarbon fiber and then allowed to cure.

As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the panel structure formed by the plurality ofheading elements 22 (e.g., carbon fiber strips) and the plurality ofspaced electrodes 30 can have a thickness extending along a verticalaxis 12 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axes 28 of the heatingelements (e.g., carbon fiber strips). The spaces between adjacentheating elements 22 (e.g., carbon fiber strips) and the plurality ofelectrodes 30 form openings 35 that extend through the thickness of thepanel structure relative to the vertical axis 12.

The Control Assembly

In other exemplary aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 1, 5-7, and 10,the control assembly 50 of the heating system 10 can be operativelycoupled to the heating assembly 20. In this aspect, the control assembly50 can be configured to selectively power the heating assembly 20. Inexemplary aspects, the control assembly 50 can be configured for remoteoperation. Optionally, it is contemplated that at least a portion of thecontrol assembly 50 can be disposed within the concrete structure 100.However, it is contemplated that any configuration in which the controlassembly 50 is positioned in operative communication with the heatingassembly 20 can be used.

In exemplary aspects, the control assembly 50 can be organized into adata acquisition box 80 and an electrical power box 60, as shown in FIG.5. In one aspect, the electrical power box 60 can optionally comprise apower meter 62. In this aspect, it is contemplated that the power meter62 can be configured to produce an output signal indicative of theenergy consumption of—and/or the energy being applied to—the heatingassembly 20. In another aspect, the electrical power box 60 can furthercomprise a power source 66, such as, for example and without limitation,an electrical power grid. In this aspect, it is contemplated that thepower source 66 can be configured to supply electrical power to theheating assembly 20. In a further aspect, the electrical power box 60can further comprise at least one transformer 68 that is configured toreceive electrical power from the power source 66 and to, followingconventional conversion of the electrical power, transmit the electricalpower to the heating assembly 20. In still a further aspect, theelectrical power box 60 can comprise at least one relay 64, such as, forexample and without limitation, a solid state relay as is conventionallyused in the art. In this aspect, the at least one relay 64 can beconfigured to receive one or more control signals from the dataacquisition box 80 and/or a computer 90 and to transmit correspondingelectrical control signals to the at least one electrical transformer68. In exemplary aspects, each transformer 68 of the at least onetransformer can be a step-down transformer. In further exemplaryaspects, it is contemplated that the at least one transformer cancomprise three transformers 68.

In an additional aspect, the control assembly 50 can optionally compriseat least one temperature sensor 70. In this aspect, it is contemplatedthat each temperature sensor 70 of the at least one temperature sensorcan be positioned at a selected location relative to the concretestructure 100. It is further contemplated that each temperature sensor70 of the at least one temperature sensor can be configured to producean output signal indicative of the temperature of the concrete structure100 at a respective selected location. In exemplary aspects, at leastone temperature sensor 70 of the at least one temperature sensor can becoupled to the heating assembly 20.

In a further aspect, the data acquisition box 80 of the control assembly50 can comprise a data acquisition system (DAQ) 82. In this aspect, thedata acquisition system 82 can be operatively coupled to the electricalpower box 60 (including, for example and without limitation, the powermeter 62) and the at least one temperature sensor 70. It is contemplatedthat the data acquisition system 82 can be configured to receive theoutput signals from the power meter 62 and the at least one temperaturesensor 70. In exemplary aspects, the DAQ 82 can comprise a datalogger,for example and without limitation, a CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC CR3000DATALOGGER® and the like. In other aspects, the data acquisition box 80of the control assembly 50 can comprise a computer interface 84, suchas, for example and without limitation, conventional data acquisitionsoftware such as LABVIEW® and the like. In these aspects, it iscontemplated that the computer interface 84 can be configured to convertthe output signals of the temperature sensors 70 and/or the power meter62 into data for storage in the memory of a computer 90. In one aspect,the computer 90 can have a processor.

In exemplary aspects, and with reference to FIG. 7, it is contemplatedthat at least one conduit 75 can be provided to receive electricalcables, electrical wiring, or other components needed to establishelectrical communication between the various components of the controlassembly 50. Optionally, it is contemplated that at least a portion ofeach conduit 75 can be buried underneath the ground proximate theconcrete structure 100 in which the heating assembly 20 is positioned.It is further contemplated that the at least one conduit 75 can beformed from any conventional insulating material.

In operation, a control signal from the data acquisition box 80 can besent to the at least one solid state relay 64. When the at least onesolid state relay 64 is activated according to pre-defined criteria, thecontrol assembly 50 can be energized by the power source 66. In oneaspect, the power meter 62 can be configured to collect data such as,but not limited to, the total energy consumption of the control assembly50 and the like. In another aspect, the at least one transformer 68 cantransform the voltage from the power source 66 to the utilizationvoltage of the control assembly 50. In this aspect, followingtransformation of the voltage, it is contemplated that the heatingassembly 20, the at least one temperature sensor 70, and the dataacquisition box 80 can be energized according to conventional methods.

It is contemplated that the control assembly 50 can be configured topermit monitoring of the temperature profile of at least one of the topsurface 110 of the concrete surface 100 and the heating assembly 20. Itis further contemplated that the data from at least one of the powermeter 62 and the at least one temperature sensor 70 can be collected,analyzed, and, optionally, used in a feedback loop to control operationof the heating system 10.

Although disclosed herein as having at least one temperature sensor 70,it is further contemplated that the control assembly 50 can furthercomprise other conventional sensors that provide corresponding outputsignals to the data acquisition box 80. For example, it is contemplatedthat the control assembly 50 can comprise at least one humidity sensor,with each respective humidity sensor being configured to produce anoutput signal indicative of the humidity proximate the humidity sensor.In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the control assembly 50can comprise at least one temperature sensor 70 and at least onehumidity sensor, with the temperature and humidity sensors providingfeedback to the data acquisition box for purposes of controlling theoperation of the heating system 10 and heating assembly 20 substantiallyas described above with respect to the at least one temperature sensor.In operation, it is contemplated that the feedback provided by thesensors can optionally be combined with global weather forecast data toenable the control assembly 50 to make intelligent, automated decisionsconcerning the operation of the heating system 10 and heating assembly20.

In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the power source 66 can beconfigured to enable resistive heating of the heating assembly 20. Inthese aspects, it is contemplated that, when the heating assembly 20comprises carbon fiber heating elements 22, the heating assembly can bepowered by a selected electrical power output. Optionally, it iscontemplated that the selected electrical power output can range fromabout 0.9 to about 1.1 W.

Formation of the Concrete Layer

In further aspects illustrated in FIG. 8, the concrete structure 100 canbe formed as a block unit of a concrete roadway. In one aspect, theconcrete structure 100 can comprise a base layer 130, which canoptionally comprise a coarse material. In this aspect, it iscontemplated that the base layer 130 can be constructed from at leastone fill material that is not susceptible to frost. In exemplaryaspects, the base layer 130 can be constructed from sandy gravel. Inanother aspect, the concrete structure 100 can comprise at least oneinsulation layer 120. In this aspect, it is contemplated that at leastone insulation layer 120 can be positioned thereon the base layer 130,as shown in FIG. 8. It is further contemplated that the at least oneinsulation layer can comprise an insulation layer that substantiallysurrounds the concrete such that only the top surface 110 of theconcrete structure 100 is exposed. In exemplary aspects, the insulatinglayer 120 can comprise, for example and without limitation, extrudedpolystyrene insulation board and the like. Optionally, in one aspect, afirst portion of the concrete layer can be positioned over theinsulation layer 120. In this aspect, the heating assembly 20 can bepositioned thereon an upper surface of the first portion of the concretelayer.

Then, the heating elements 22 of the heating assembly 20 can beelectrically connected to the control assembly 50. It is contemplatedthat the heating assembly 20 can be configured to be powered by eitheran AC or a DC source. Optionally, it is contemplated that the AC or DCpower source can be a low-voltage power source, thereby ensuring safeoperation of the heating system 10 and eliminating the need foracquiring special permits to use the system. As further described above,in exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20can be powered by an existing power grid 66.

In further aspects, a second portion of the concrete layer can then beformed over the heating assembly 20. Optionally, the second portion ofthe concrete layer can be formed by installing a reinforced steel meshat about 1 inch above the heating assembly and pouring concrete mix overthe heating assembly using standard techniques known to those skilled inthe art. It is contemplated that the concrete layer can comprise atleast one of, for example and without limitation, Portland concretecement, asphalt concrete, gypsum concrete, and the like. In even furtheraspects, a plurality of concrete roadway block units can be positionedadjacent to each other to form a heated concrete roadway structure.Optionally, it is contemplated that the heating assembly 20 can bevertically spaced from a top surface of the insulation layer 120 by adistance 116 of about 1 inch. Optionally, it is contemplated that theinsulation layer 120 can have a thickness 118 of about 2 inches.

Operation of the Heating System

In operation, the disclosed heating system 10 can be used in a methodfor heating a concrete structure 100. In one aspect, the method cancomprise integrally forming the heating assembly with the concretestructure as disclosed herein. In another aspect, the method cancomprise operatively coupling the control assembly to the heatingassembly as disclosed herein. In a further aspect, the method cancomprise selectively activating the control assembly from a remotelocation to power the heating assembly and heat the concrete structure.

In various other aspects, a method for analyzing the data collected fromthe data acquisition box 80 can be provided. In one aspect, this methodcan be implemented via an algorithm configured to analyze the data fromthe at least one temperature sensor 70 (and/or other conventionalsensors) and control the relays 64. In further aspects, the algorithmcan be configured to selectively activate and deactivate the heatingassembly 20 (e.g., by applying electrical power to the heating assemblyor ceasing application of electrical power to the heating assembly). Ina further aspect, this method can be implemented using a LABVIEW® basedcontrol system algorithm. In one aspect, as shown in FIG. 5, a manualcontrol can be provided. In exemplary aspects, the manual control cancomprise a conventional on/off switch that can be operated manually by auser in case of an emergency or in case of malfunction of an automaticcontrol algorithm. In another aspect, a computer-based control algorithmcan be provided. In this aspect, the computer-based control algorithmcan optionally be configured to power the heating assembly 20 so long asat least one measured temperature (or other measured condition) of theconcrete structure 100 is less than a predetermined value. For example,in this aspect, the control algorithm can be configured to turn off thepower supply once the measured temperature exceeds a predeterminedtemperature value. It is contemplated that the at least one measuredtemperature can substantially correspond to at least one of thetemperature at the top surface 110 of the concrete structure 100 and atan upper surface of the heating assembly 20. In yet another aspect, thecontrol algorithm can optionally be configured to enable weatherprediction-based control. In this aspect, the control algorithm can beconfigured to selectively power the power source 66 based on at leastone of the measured temperature (or other condition) of at least aportion of the concrete structure 100 (including, for example, the topsurface 110) and a weather forecast for the area where the concretestructure is located. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that theweather forecast data can be retrieved through computer 90 using anInternet website and/or other database. Optionally, if the weatherforecast calls for freezing rain and/or ice accumulation, it iscontemplated that the control algorithm can be configured to activatethe power source 66 in advance of the precipitation event such that nofrozen precipitation accumulates and less power is needed to maintainthe concrete structure 100 in a clear state during and, optionallyafter, the precipitation event.

Illustrative Examples

In one illustrative example of the present disclosure shown in FIG. 7, aconcrete sidewalk comprising a plurality of self-heating carbon fiberheating panels (a plurality of heating assemblies 20) is provided. Thesidewalk can be divided into a series of concrete structures 100 a, 100b, 100 c, 100 d, 100 e, with each concrete structure (block) having alongitudinal axis 102, a longitudinal length 140 of about 72 inches (6feet) and a width 150 of about 48 inches (4 feet). It is contemplatedthat the concrete sidewalk can be about 360 inches (30 feet) long andabout 48″ (4′) wide such that the total area of the sidewalk can beabout 120 square feet.

Although exemplary dimensions of the concrete structures 100, theheating assembly 20, and the elements of the heating assembly areprovided herein, it is contemplated that the dimensions of the concretestructures 100, the heating assembly, and/or the elements of the heatingassembly can be selectively varied to optimize the power density (i.e.,the power applied in a given area) of the heating system 10 for aparticular application. For example, it is contemplated that the optimalpower density for an indoor application can vary from the optimal powerdensity for an outdoor application. Similarly, it is contemplated thatthe optimal power density for a floor-heating application can vary fromthe optimal power density for a de-icing application. Therefore, inexemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the overall length and/orwidth of the concrete structures 100 can be selectively varied as neededto achieve the optimal power density. In other exemplary aspects, it iscontemplated that the length and/or width of each heating assembly 20can be selectively varied as needed to achieve the optimal powerdensity. In still other exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that thelength, width, thickness, and/or spacing of the heating elements 22and/or electrodes 30 can be selectively varied as needed to achieve theoptimal power density.

In another illustrative example shown in FIG. 8, taken at section lineA-A, a profile of concrete structure 100 c comprises about 2″polystyrene foam boards disposed above the base 130 of the pavement andsurrounding at least a portion of the concrete sidewalk. In a furtheraspect, the insulation 120 surrounds the entire concrete sidewalk. Inother aspects, the carbon fiber heating panels (heating assemblies 20)can be embedded within the concrete at a depth 114 of about 4 inches. Inother aspects, at least a portion of the top surface 110 of eachconcrete structure 100 (concrete structure 100 c, as shown) can have aslope 112 across at least a portion of its longitudinal length. It iscontemplated that the slope 112 can correspond to an incline of about 1%to allow for water drainage in a selected direction. In the presentexample and as shown in FIG. 7, heating assemblies can be embeddedwithin concrete structures 100 b, 100 c, and 100 d, and concretestructures 100 a and 100 e can be provided without heating assembliesand function as controls. In exemplary aspects, the dimensions of eachheating panel 20 can be about 72 inches (long)×48 inches (wide).

As shown in FIG. 9, the heating elements 22 can have a width 25 of about3 inches and can be placed in electrical contact with the electrodes. Inone aspect, the electrodes 30 can comprise two copper strip electrodes30 a, 30 b placed on each end 24, 26 of the heating elements 22 as shownin FIG. 9. In a further aspect, eight or more carbon fiber tape heatingelements can be clamped between the copper strip electrodes 30 a, 30 bon each side of the heating panel 20. Optionally, it is contemplatedthat each copper strip electrode 30 a, 30 b can have a configuration oftwo spaced bars 33 as shown in FIG. 2B.

In other aspects, the plurality of heating panels 20 can be operativelyconnected to both an electrical power box 60 and a data acquisition box80 as generally described above. In exemplary configurations, theelectrical power box 60 can comprise a power meter 62, three step-downtransformers 68 and at least one solid state relay 64. The power meter62 can be configured to record power and energy usage of the system overa defined time period. In one aspect, the transformers 68 used can havea primary voltage of about 120/240 V, a secondary voltage of about 12/24V, and a VA rating of about 1,000 VA. In other aspects, the transformerscan be connected to a 110 V/60 Hz AC power source 66 and, in yet otheraspects, the heating panels 20 can be charged with a 24 V AC powersource in order to produce the desired operating temperatures.

In further aspects shown in FIG. 10, the at least one temperature sensor70 can comprise a plurality of thermocouples arranged on the surface ofthe concrete sidewalk. In one illustrative example, fourteenthermocouples can be arranged proximate the top surface of the concreteblocks. In a further aspect, the thermocouples can be embedded into theconcrete blocks to enable monitoring of temperature changes of therespective concrete structures (blocks). In an even further aspect, atleast two thermocouples 70 a can be installed proximate the top surface110 of the concrete structure 100, at least one thermocouple 70 b can beinstalled proximate the heating assembly 20, and at least onethermocouple 70 c can be installed proximate the base layer 130 of theconcrete structure 100.

In exemplary aspects, the DAQ 82 can be configured to sample temperaturedata at 5 second intervals over a given operational period and,optionally, the data can be averaged to provide one temperature valuefor each minute of operation. In even further aspects, the controlassembly 50 can be operatively connected to the internet such that auser can both monitor data and, optionally, control the deicing systemfrom a remote location.

In various other aspects, using the concrete sidewalk as constructedabove, piles of snow were allowed to fall on the concrete sidewalk untilapproximately 2 inches of snow were deposited on the top surfaces of theconcrete structures forming the sidewalk. The heating assembly can beconnected to a transformer of, for example, 1 kVA and 24 VAC output. Thetransformer was allowed to heat the carbon heating element for about 3hours for block 2 and block 4. Blocks 1, 3 and 5 were not heated inorder to illustrate the efficacy of the automated electrical deicingsystem of the present disclosure. The accumulated snow on the surface ofthe heated blocks completely melted due to the heat transferred by theheating assembly to the surface of the concrete sidewalk above. FIG. 11shows exemplary results of such a heating system, which demonstrate theefficacy of the disclosed system as an automated electrical deicingsystem.

In other aspects, temperature sensors 70 (e.g., thermocouples)operatively positioned on the concrete sidewalk can be used to monitorthe surface temperature the sidewalk during the heating period. In oneillustrative example, temperature plots are shown in FIG. 12. The datacurve 1202 illustrates the temperature of the heating panel over time.The data curve 1204 and data curve 1206 illustrate the surfacetemperature of block 2 and block 4 over time. The data curve 1208illustrates the soil temperature beneath the insulation over time andcan be substantially constant. In other aspects, FIG. 12 alsoillustrates that substantially all of the heat energy can be dissipatedtowards the outer surface of the concrete sidewalk. In one example, datawas taken for approximately 14 hours and, after 3 hours, the systemsaccording to the present disclosure may be capable of melting theaccumulated snow. In a further example, after about 8 hours, the heatingof concrete blocks can be stopped manually. In other examples, it cantake about 6 hours for the surface temperature of the concrete to returnto the ambient temperature.

In another illustrative example, FIG. 13 shows the temperature variationversus time for various locations during deicing under exemplaryoperating conditions. Here, five thermocouples can be located asfollows: on the CFT heating panel surface (Thermocouple SFI) 1302, onthe base coarse material directly beneath the insulation board(Thermocouple SFO) 1304, and the lower side (Thermocouple T6) 1306,middle (Thermocouple T5) 1308, and upper side (Thermocouple T4) 1310 ofthe concrete surface slope. The lowest air temperature recorded duringoperation here can be about −9.4° F. (−23.0° C.) and occurred early inthe morning. The average air temperature during operation can be about11.5° F. (−11.4° C.), and the corresponding wind chill can be about−6.3° F. (−21.3° C.). The initial temperature of the entire sidewalkpavement can be about 4.1° F. (−15.5° C.). FIG. 13 shows that withinabout 4.5 h, the temperature of the lower side of the surface can riseto above snow melting point, and the time required to melt the snow canbe about 7.5 h. During the test, the concrete surface temperature canpeak at about 51.8° F. (11.0° C.). The temperature difference amongdifferent locations of the concrete surface can be within about 5.4° F.(3° C.), indicating that the panels are operable to heat the concretesurface quite uniformly. Without wishing to be bound by theory and/orsimulation, the temperature variation of the sloped sidewalk surface maybe due to the variation in the distance from the heating panel and theirrelative location to the carbon fiber strips in the transversedirection. During this exemplary deicing operation, the heating panelsurface temperature can peak at about 57.2° F. (14° C.), and thetemperature of the base coarse material below the insulation board canremain around about 24.8° F. (-4° C.), indicating that the insulationlayer can work well to direct the heat towards the upper surface.

In yet other examples, the heating (deicing) system can be used toprevent the accumulation of ice or snow on the concrete surface. In thisexample, the deicing system was turned on about 4-5 hours prior tosnowfall and the snow accumulated on surrounding outdoor surfacesmeasured about 152.4 mm (6 in.) over a 12-18 hour period. The deicingsystem can remain active for a selected time period, such as, forexample, 24 hours. Under such conditions, little to no snow or ice islikely to accumulate on the heated concrete surface as illustrated inFIG. 14. The cost associated with this exemplary anti-icing operationfor the three heating elements can be about 20.7 kWh, or $4.1 at$0.2/kW-h. Here, the highest temperature of the heating panel was about79.0° F. (26.1° C.), and the concrete surface temperature reached a peakvalue of about 59.0° F. (15.0° C.). The average air temperature duringthis test was about 20.0° F. (−6.7″ C).

In even further aspects, the power consumption of the system describedabove can be optimized by employing different control algorithms such asthe LABVIEW® based control algorithms described above. Here, theautomatic control system maintained the sidewalk surface temperature ata range of about +35-40° F. (+1.7-4.4° C.), during the anti-icingoperation. It is contemplated that this can further reduce energyconsumption of the system to about ½ to about ⅔ of what would beconsumed without an automated control system.

In further aspects, it is contemplated that the heated concrete surfaceand deicing system can be designed such that no degradation of thesystem occurs over several years or decades of operation. For example,it is contemplated that the heat cycling can be controlled such that theconcrete will not undergo cracking. In another example, it iscontemplated that the deicing system can be configured so that nomeasurable change results in the electrical resistance of the heatingpanels. It is further contemplated that the heating panels, the powersupply electrodes, and the interfaces between the electrodes and theheating panels can be stable.

During each exemplary operation, a variety of data, including snowdepth, snow density, air temperature, wind chill, temperature on thetest sidewalk surface, and energy consumption, were recorded assummarized in FIG. 15. The energy consumption recorded was of the threeheated blocks of sidewalk, and the power density is defined as the powerapplied per unit of surface area. Air temperature indicates the averageambient temperature recorded during each deicing experiment at one ortwo readings per hour. The measured snow density from different testsvaried from 40 to 510 kg/mJ because of factors such as snow accumulationtime and wetness. For comparison, snow accumulation was normalized to anequivalent depth of fresh snow with a density of 60 kg/m.

Assuming an electricity cost of $0.2/kW-h, the recorded energyconsumption was converted to energy cost, normalized by surface area andthe equivalent snow accumulation, and presented as unit cost in FIG. 15.The average unit cost was $0.0292/m²-cm ($0.0069/ft²-in.) for alldeicing tests and $0.0573 m²-cm ($0.0135/ft²-in.) for all anti-icingtests. Furthermore, the unit cost of deicing/ anti-icing versus ambienttemperature and wind chill are presented in FIGS. 16 and 17,respectively. FIGS. 16 and 17 show that the deicing energy cost is verysensitive to ambient temperature and wind chill and generally increasesas the latter two decrease. FIG. 18 depicts the unit cost ofdeicing/anti-icing versus snow density. As illustrated, no obviousrelationship between snow density and unit cost can be observed.

Cost effectiveness can be one important factor in the applicability of adeicing system; thus, a cost comparison of deicing systems of thepresent disclosure with other systems that have been reported inliterature was prepared. As discussed previously, the deicing cost isvery sensitive to air temperature. The average unit cost for a selectedair temperature range from about 21-27° F. (−6 to −3° C.) was computedfor the deicing systems disclosed herein and compared with other systemsknown in the art in the table shown in FIG. 19.

In addition, the annual operating cost, power density, and installationcost of the disclosed deicing systems was compared with other knownsystems, as shown in FIG. 19. The installation cost for the disclosedsystem was calculated on the basis of the sum of the costs of theheating panels, electrical and control equipment, and insulation boardsused in the three 1.8×1.2 m (6×4 ft) test sidewalk blocks. The laborcost and cost of the pavement materials itself were not included in thiscalculation. The results depicted in FIG. 19 show that the disclosedsystem has the lowest power density and unit cost and relatively lowerinstallation cost among the systems compared. It is contemplated thatthe use of an insulation layer 1.8×1.2 m (6×4 ft), and its improveduniformity of heating coupled with its low power density, can contributeto the high efficiency of the disclosed system.

Although several embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in theforegoing specification, it is understood by those skilled in the artthat many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will cometo mind to which the invention pertains, having the benefit of theteaching presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings.It is thus understood that the invention is not limited to the specificembodiments disclosed hereinabove, and that many modifications and otherembodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appendedclaims. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as wellas in the claims which follow, they are used only in a generic anddescriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the describedinvention, nor the claims which follow.

We claim:
 1. A heating panel comprising: a plurality of carbon fiberstrips, each carbon fiber strip of the plurality of carbon fiber stripsbeing spaced apart from adjacent carbon fiber strips within the paneland having opposed first and second ends and a longitudinal axisextending between the opposed first and second ends; and a plurality ofelectrodes, each electrode of the plurality of electrodes being spacedapart from other electrodes within the panel, wherein at least oneelectrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes is electrically coupledto each respective carbon fiber strip of the plurality of carbon fiberstrips, wherein the plurality of spaced carbon fiber strips areconnected to the plurality of spaced electrodes to form a panelstructure, wherein the panel structure has a thickness extending along atransverse axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of thecarbon fiber strips, and wherein the spaces between adjacent carbonfiber strips and the plurality of electrodes form openings that extendthrough the thickness of the panel structure relative to the transverseaxis.
 2. The heating panel of claim 1, wherein the longitudinal axis ofeach respective carbon fiber strip is substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis of each other carbon fiber strip of the plurality ofspaced carbon fiber strips.
 3. The heating panel of claim 2, wherein theplurality of spaced carbon fiber strips are connected in parallel to theplurality of spaced electrodes.
 4. The heating panel of claim 1, whereinthe plurality of spaced electrodes comprises at least one pair ofopposed electrodes, wherein each pair of opposed electrodes comprises afirst electrode coupled to the first end of at least one spaced carbonfiber strip and a second electrode coupled to the second end of at leastone spaced carbon fiber strip.
 5. The heating panel of claim 1, furthercomprising a plurality of electrical wires that are electrically coupledto the plurality of spaced electrodes.
 6. The heating panel of claim 1,wherein each electrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes has alongitudinal axis, wherein the plurality of spaced electrodes areelectrically coupled to the plurality of spaced carbon fiber strips suchthat the longitudinal axis of each respective electrode is substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal axis of each other electrode of theplurality of spaced electrodes.
 7. The heating panel of claim 3, whereineach electrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes has a longitudinalaxis, wherein the plurality of spaced electrodes are electricallycoupled to the plurality of spaced carbon fiber strips such that thelongitudinal axis of each respective electrode is substantially parallelto the longitudinal axis of each other electrode of the plurality ofspaced electrodes, and wherein the longitudinal axes of the plurality ofspaced carbon fiber strips are substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axes of the plurality of spaced electrodes.
 8. A heatingsystem comprising: a structure having an exposed outer surface; and aheating panel comprising: a plurality of carbon fiber strips, eachcarbon fiber strip of the plurality of carbon fiber strips being spacedapart from adjacent carbon fiber strips within the panel and havingopposed first and second ends and a longitudinal axis extending betweenthe opposed first and second ends; and a plurality of electrodes, eachelectrode of the plurality of electrodes being spaced apart from otherelectrodes within the panel, wherein at least one electrode of theplurality of spaced electrodes is electrically coupled to eachrespective carbon fiber strip of the plurality of carbon fiber strips,wherein the plurality of spaced carbon fiber strips are connected to theplurality of spaced electrodes to form the heating panel, wherein theheating panel has a thickness extending along a transverse axis that isperpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the carbon fiber strips, andwherein the spaces between adjacent carbon fiber strips and theplurality of electrodes form openings that extend through the thicknessof the heating panel relative to the transverse axis, wherein theheating panel is inwardly spaced from the exposed outer surface of thestructure and is configured to apply thermal energy to the exposed outersurface of the structure.
 9. The heating system of claim 8, wherein thestructure is a concrete structure, wherein at least a portion of theconcrete structure is formed over the heating panel such that theheating panel is integrally formed within the concrete structure toapply thermal energy to the exposed outer surface of the concretestructure, and wherein the concrete structure comprises a first portionpositioned on a first side of the heating panel and a second portionpositioned on an opposed second side of the heating panel to embed theheating panel within the concrete structure.
 10. The heating system ofclaim 8, wherein the structure is a roof structure.
 11. The heatingsystem of claim 8, wherein the longitudinal axis of each respectivecarbon fiber strip is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis ofeach other carbon fiber strip of the plurality of spaced carbon fiberstrips.
 12. The heating system of claim 11, wherein the plurality ofspaced carbon fiber strips are connected in parallel to the plurality ofspaced electrodes.
 13. The heating system of claim 8, wherein theplurality of spaced electrodes comprises at least one pair of opposedelectrodes, wherein each pair of opposed electrodes comprises a firstelectrode coupled to the first end of at least one spaced carbon fiberstrip and a second electrode coupled to the second end of at least onespaced carbon fiber strip.
 14. The heating system of claim 8, whereinthe heating panel further comprises a plurality of electrical wires thatare electrically coupled to the plurality of spaced electrodes and thecontrol assembly.
 15. The heating system of claim 8, wherein eachelectrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes has a longitudinal axis,wherein the plurality of spaced electrodes are electrically coupled tothe plurality of spaced carbon fiber strips such that the longitudinalaxis of each respective electrode is substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis of each other electrode of the plurality of spacedelectrodes.
 16. The heating system of claim 8, wherein each electrode ofthe plurality of spaced electrodes has a longitudinal axis, wherein theplurality of spaced electrodes are electrically coupled to the pluralityof spaced carbon fiber strips such that the longitudinal axis of eachrespective electrode is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axisof each other electrode of the plurality of spaced electrodes, andwherein the longitudinal axes of the plurality of spaced carbon fiberstrips are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of theplurality of spaced electrodes.
 17. A method for heating a structurehaving an exposed outer surface, comprising: forming a heating panelcomprising: a plurality of carbon fiber strips, each carbon fiber stripof the plurality of carbon fiber strips being spaced apart from adjacentcarbon fiber strips within the panel and having opposed first and secondends and a longitudinal axis extending between the opposed first andsecond ends; and a plurality of electrodes, each electrode of theplurality of electrodes being spaced apart from other electrodes withinthe panel, wherein at least one electrode of the plurality of spacedelectrodes is electrically coupled to each respective carbon fiber stripof the plurality of carbon fiber strips, wherein the plurality of spacedcarbon fiber strips are connected to the plurality of spaced electrodesto form the heating panel, wherein the heating panel has a thicknessextending along a transverse axis that is perpendicular to thelongitudinal axes of the carbon fiber strips, and wherein the spacesbetween adjacent carbon fiber strips and the plurality of electrodesform openings that extend through the thickness of the heating panelrelative to the transverse axis; operatively coupling a control assemblyto the heating panel, wherein the control assembly is configured toselectively power the heating panel; positioning the heating panel suchthat the heating panel is inwardly spaced from the exposed outer surfaceof the structure; and selectively activating the control assembly from aremote location to power the heating panel and heat the exposed outersurface of the structure.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein thestructure is a concrete structure, and wherein at least a portion of theconcrete structure is formed over the heating panel such that theheating panel is integrally formed with the concrete structure.
 19. Themethod of claim 18, wherein a first portion of the concrete structure ispositioned on a first side of the heating panel and a second portion ofthe concrete structure is positioned on an opposed second side of theheating panel to embed the heating panel within the concrete structure.20. The method of claim 17, wherein the structure is a roof structure.